Writing Cover Letters with ChatGPT

Learn to write effective cover letters with the help of ChatGPT.

Using GPT to generate cover letters is a simple process. However, there are a lot of tricks we can use to get an optimized output. Let's go over the process of using ChatGPT to generate an impactful cover letter.

Generic prompt#

Let's start with a generic prompt:

Prompt: Write a cover letter for a software engineering position at company X.

Even with just this output, GPT will generate a decent template that can be modified as per your needs.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Software Engineering position at Company X. With over five years of experience in software engineering, I possess the necessary technical skills, expertise, and passion for programming that will enable me to make significant contributions to your organization.

I have developed proficiency in a variety of programming languages, including Java, Python, and JavaScript. I have worked on a wide range of software projects, from small-scale applications to enterprise-level systems. I am experienced in designing, developing, and deploying software applications, and I have worked in Agile and Scrum environments, which has honed my ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

In my previous position at ABC Inc., I was responsible for leading the development of several critical software applications that have increased productivity, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction. What sets me apart is my passion for software engineering. I am always seeking opportunities to learn and grow, and I stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the field.

I am confident that my technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and passion for software engineering make me an ideal candidate for this position. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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Evaluating the generic prompt#

We can ask ChatGPT to evaluate the cover letter generated above and ask for suggestions on how to improve it. This will first require that we assign ChatGPT the hiring manager role with a background fitting to evaluate a software engineer (the role we applied for).

We can then specify the strictness level of the evaluation. Finally, we will ask ChatGPT to point out the shortcomings and suggest points for improvement. An example of an evaluation is as follows:

Prompt: You are a hiring manager with a background in software engineering. You are strict and demand technical excellence from candidates. You receive the following cover letter and have to point out the shortcomings of the cover letter and candidate. Also provide suggestions for how the cover letter can be improved.

Cover letter = """

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Software Engineering position at Company X. With over five years of experience in software engineering, I possess the necessary technical skills, expertise, and passion for programming that will enable me to make significant contributions to your organization.

I have developed proficiency in a variety of programming languages, including Java, Python, and JavaScript. I have worked on a wide range of software projects, from small-scale applications to enterprise-level systems. I am experienced in designing, developing, and deploying software applications, and I have worked in Agile and Scrum environments, which has honed my ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

In my previous position at ABC Inc., I was responsible for leading the development of several critical software applications that have increased productivity, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction. What sets me apart is my passion for software engineering. I am always seeking opportunities to learn and grow, and I stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the field.

I am confident that my technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and passion for software engineering make me an ideal candidate for this position. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

"""


Dear [Candidate’s Name],

Thank you for expressing your interest in the Software Engineering position at Company X. I appreciate the time and effort you put into your application. However, I would like to provide you with some feedback on your cover letter to help you improve your chances in the hiring process.

Lack of Specific Achievements: While you mention your experience in software engineering and working on various projects, it would be beneficial to include specific achievements or outcomes that demonstrate the impact of your work. Employers value measurable results that showcase your capabilities and contributions to previous projects. Suggestion: Provide specific examples of projects where you made a significant impact, such as improving performance, implementing innovative solutions, or successfully delivering complex software systems.

Limited Information on Technical Skills: Although you mention proficiency in Java, Python, and JavaScript, it would be helpful to provide more details about your expertise in these languages. Highlight specific frameworks, libraries, or tools you have utilized and your level of proficiency. Suggestion: Specify your experience with relevant technologies, such as Spring Framework for Java, Django for Python, or React for JavaScript. Additionally, if you have experience with any specialized domains or technologies, such as machine learning or cloud computing, mention them to showcase your versatility.

Lack of Alignment with Company X: Tailoring your cover letter to the specific company and role is crucial to demonstrate your genuine interest and suitability for the position. However, your letter lacks a clear connection between your skills and experiences and what Company X is looking for. Suggestion: Conduct thorough research on Company X, their values, projects, and requirements for the Software Engineering position. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs, and showcase your enthusiasm for contributing to their specific goals.

Insufficient Detail on Agile and Scrum Experience: While you mention working in Agile and Scrum environments, it would be beneficial to provide more information on your specific role and contributions within these methodologies. Simply mentioning the environments may not adequately convey your level of expertise. Suggestion: Describe your specific responsibilities in Agile and Scrum projects, such as leading stand-ups, participating in sprint planning, or utilizing tools like Jira for project management. Highlight any achievements or challenges you faced while working in these environments.

Lack of Closing Statement: Your cover letter ends rather abruptly without a closing statement. A strong closing can leave a lasting impression and reinforce your enthusiasm for the role. Suggestion: Conclude your letter with a brief summary of your key qualifications and express your gratitude for the opportunity to be considered. State your availability for further discussions or interviews and provide contact information for easy follow-up.

By addressing these areas, you can enhance your cover letter and present yourself as a more compelling candidate. Best of luck in your job search, and thank you for considering my feedback.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Improving the prompt#

Now that we have an evaluation of our original cover letter, we can make adjustments based on the suggestions provided by ChatGPT. Let's see what that can look like:

Prompt: I received the following suggestions on my cover letter. Please rewrite the cover letter provided with the given suggestions.

Suggestions = """

Lack of Specific Achievements: While you mention your experience in software engineering and working on various projects, it would be beneficial to include specific achievements or outcomes that demonstrate the impact of your work. Employers value measurable results that showcase your capabilities and contributions to previous projects.


Limited Information on Technical Skills: Although you mention proficiency in Java, Python, and JavaScript, it would be helpful to provide more details about your expertise in these languages. Highlight specific frameworks, libraries, or tools you have utilized and your level of proficiency.


Lack of Alignment with Company X: Tailoring your cover letter to the specific company and role is crucial to demonstrate your genuine interest and suitability for the position. However, your letter lacks a clear connection between your skills and experiences and what Company X is looking for.


Insufficient Detail on Agile and Scrum Experience: While you mention working in Agile and Scrum environments, it would be beneficial to provide more information on your specific role and contributions within these methodologies. Simply mentioning the environments may not adequately convey your level of expertise.


Lack of Closing Statement: Your cover letter ends rather abruptly without a closing statement. A strong closing can leave a lasting impression and reinforce your enthusiasm for the role.

"""


Cover letter = """ <cover letter> """


Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineering position at Company X with great enthusiasm. With over five years of experience in software engineering, I have consistently delivered impactful results and possess the necessary technical skills to contribute significantly to your organization.

Throughout my career, I have achieved several notable accomplishments that highlight my capabilities as a software engineer. For instance, I successfully led the development of critical software applications at ABC Inc. These applications not only increased productivity and reduced costs but also significantly improved customer satisfaction. One notable achievement was the implementation of an innovative algorithm that enhanced data processing efficiency by 40%.

My technical expertise extends to a variety of programming languages, including Java, Python, and JavaScript. I have extensive experience working with frameworks such as Spring Framework for Java, Django for Python, and React for JavaScript. Additionally, I am well-versed in utilizing modern software development tools and practices, such as continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines and automated testing frameworks.

I am particularly excited about the Software Engineering position at Company X because of the alignment between my skills and your organization’s goals. Your focus on developing cutting-edge solutions in the healthcare industry resonates with my passion for creating impactful software that improves people’s lives. I am confident that my experience in developing healthcare management systems and my deep understanding of regulatory compliance requirements will enable me to contribute effectively to your team.

In addition to my technical skills, I am experienced in working in Agile and Scrum environments. As a certified Scrum Master, I have facilitated successful sprints and effectively collaborated with cross-functional teams. I am skilled in utilizing tools like Jira and Confluence to streamline project management and foster efficient communication.

I am excited to join Company X and contribute to its mission of revolutionizing healthcare through technology. My passion for software engineering drives me to continually stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. I actively participate in industry conferences and engage in personal projects to enhance my knowledge and skills.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my expertise and dedication can contribute to the success of Company X. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

We can see that the suggestions have been incorporated, but the content still seems quite generic. This is because ChatGPT lacks context to personalize the cover letter despite the lengthy prompt. We have provided no context for the job demands or our qualifications and achievements.

Personalizing the prompt#

To personalize the cover letter for the specific job, we can share the job description with GPT as part of the prompt. The example below uses a job description from Google:

Prompt: Please write a cover letter to apply for a job with the given job description (JD).

JD = """

About the job

Our computational challenges are so big, complex and unique we can't just purchase off-the-shelf hardware, we've got to make it ourselves. Your team designs and builds the hardware, software and networking technologies that power all of Google's services. As a Hardware Engineer, you design and build the systems that are the heart of the world's largest and most powerful computing infrastructure. You develop from the lowest levels of circuit design to large system design and see those systems all the way through to high volume manufacturing. Your work has the potential to shape the machinery that goes into our cutting-edge data centers affecting millions of Google users.


With your technical expertise, you lead projects in multiple areas of expertise (i.e., engineering domains or systems) within a data center facility, including construction and equipment installation/troubleshooting/debugging with vendors.


Google's mission is to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. Our team combines the best of Google AI, Software, and Hardware to create radically helpful experiences. We research, design, and develop new technologies and hardware to make computing faster, seamless, and more powerful. We aim to make people's lives better through technology.


Responsibilities

Assess performance analysis infrastructure, which includes preparing workloads, developing performance models, and conducting performance and workload analysis.

Participate in Performance, Power, Area (PPA) trade-off analysis for architecture and micro-architecture features.

Communicate analysis results in qualitative and quantitative fashion to support major decisions.

Understand performance bottlenecks and CPU performance analysis.

Work with the RTL team to correlate the performance model with the RTL and define future roadmap features and performance requirements.

"""


We can see that the cover letter is much more tailored to the specific job now.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Hardware Engineer position at Google. I am thrilled about the prospect of joining a team that designs and builds cutting-edge technology to power the world’s largest computing infrastructure.

As an experienced Hardware Engineer with a track record of developing complex systems from circuit design to high volume manufacturing, I am confident that I can make significant contributions to your team. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong technical expertise in multiple areas of engineering domains and systems, including construction, equipment installation, troubleshooting, and debugging with vendors.

I have a keen interest in performance analysis infrastructure, and I believe that my skills and experience in developing performance models, conducting workload analysis, and participating in PPA trade-off analysis for architecture and micro-architecture features would be an asset to your team. I also possess excellent communication skills and can present analysis results in a qualitative and quantitative fashion to support major decisions.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with the RTL team to correlate the performance model with the RTL and define future roadmap features and performance requirements. I am passionate about Google’s mission to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful, and I am confident that my contributions can help make people’s lives better through technology.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

The next step is to provide GPT with some information about yourself.

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You can add your resume to the prompt above, but a better way would be to use a two-step approach.

  1. Provide GPT with your resume, and ask it to highlight your responsibilities and achievements in a compelling and insightful way.

  2. Use the highlights from the previous step in a new prompt to create a personalized and impactful cover letter.

Prompt: Use my information and the job description (JD) given below to generate cover letter. The cover letter should highlight my technical expertise.

My information = """

Professional Accomplishments:

- Designed and implemented a high-performance computing system for a large-scale data center, resulting in improved efficiency and reduced energy consumption.

- Led a team of engineers in the development of a custom hardware solution, resulting in a 30% increase in processing speed for critical workloads.

- Developed and deployed performance analysis tools and methodologies, enabling accurate performance evaluation of complex systems.


Leadership Experiences:

- Managed a cross-functional team in the construction and equipment installation of a state-of-the-art data center facility, ensuring timely project completion and adherence to quality standards.

- Served as a technical lead in PPA (Performance, Power, Area) trade-off analysis, providing guidance and insights to the architecture and micro-architecture teams for optimal system performance.

- Collaborated with stakeholders to communicate performance analysis results and influence decision-making processes.


Technical expertise:

- Extensive knowledge of circuit design, system architecture, and hardware-software integration.

- Proficient in performance modeling, workload analysis, and performance bottleneck identification.

- Skilled in conducting CPU performance analysis and correlating performance models with RTL (Register Transfer Level) designs.

- Familiarity with performance analysis infrastructure and tools, including workloads preparation and performance evaluation techniques.

"""


JD = """ <job description> """


Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Hardware Engineer position at Google. With my extensive technical expertise, leadership experiences, and industry-specific knowledge, I am confident in my ability to contribute significantly to the design and development of cutting-edge systems that power Google’s services.

In terms of my professional accomplishments, I have successfully designed and implemented a high-performance computing system for a large-scale data center. This initiative resulted in remarkable efficiency improvements and substantial energy consumption reduction. Furthermore, I led a team of engineers in the development of a custom hardware solution, delivering a significant 30% increase in processing speed for critical workloads. To ensure accurate performance evaluation of complex systems, I developed and deployed performance analysis tools and methodologies, enabling precise performance assessment.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated strong leadership abilities. As a manager, I successfully led a cross-functional team in the construction and equipment installation of a state-of-the-art data center facility. By ensuring timely project completion and maintaining adherence to quality standards, I facilitated seamless operations. Additionally, I served as a technical lead in Performance, Power, Area (PPA) trade-off analysis, providing valuable guidance and insights to architecture and micro-architecture teams, optimizing system performance. I effectively communicated performance analysis results to stakeholders, influencing major decision-making processes.

My technical expertise aligns perfectly with the requirements outlined in the job description. I possess extensive knowledge of circuit design, system architecture, and hardware-software integration. Proficient in performance modeling, workload analysis, and performance bottleneck identification, I am well-equipped to assess and optimize performance analysis infrastructure. Furthermore, I am skilled in conducting CPU performance analysis and correlating performance models with RTL (Register Transfer Level) designs. This expertise will be instrumental in defining future roadmap features and performance requirements, collaborating closely with the RTL team.

I am truly inspired by Google’s mission to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful. The opportunity to combine the best of Google AI, Software, and Hardware to create radically helpful experiences resonates deeply with my career aspirations.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute my technical expertise and passion for innovation to the Hardware Engineering team at Google. I would welcome the chance to discuss further how my qualifications align with the position.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Evaluating the improved prompt#

We will follow the same process for evaluating the improved prompt.

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We can ask ChatGPT to evaluate the cover letter as the hiring manager or as the position we applied for.

Prompt: You are a hiring manager with a background in hardware engineering. You are strict and demand technical excellence from candidates. You receive the following cover letter for the job description (JD) given below and have to point out the shortcomings of the cover letter and the candidate. If there are any suggestions, give them as a list with explanations.


Cover letter = """ <cover letter> """


JD = """ <job description> """

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for expressing your interest in the Hardware Engineer position at Google. After reviewing your cover letter, I appreciate your enthusiasm and the relevant experiences you’ve highlighted. However, I would like to provide some feedback to help you further improve your application:

Lack of Quantifiable Results: While you mention your accomplishments, such as designing a high-performance computing system and leading a team in developing a custom hardware solution, you should provide specific quantitative results to demonstrate the impact of your work. Including metrics such as performance improvements, energy savings, or processing speed enhancements would make your achievements more compelling.

Limited Discussion of Industry-Specific Keywords: The job description emphasizes the need for expertise in circuit design, system architecture, and hardware-software integration. While you mention possessing this knowledge, you should provide more context or examples to showcase your proficiency in these areas. Additionally, demonstrating familiarity with performance modeling, workload analysis, and correlating performance models with RTL designs would further support your suitability for the role.

Incomplete Connection to Google’s Mission: While you briefly mention being inspired by Google’s mission, you could expand on how your passion for innovation and technical excellence aligns with the company’s goals. Providing specific examples of how your work has contributed to making people’s lives better through technology would strengthen your connection to Google’s mission.

I recommend revisiting your cover letter and incorporating these suggestions to strengthen your application. Remember to highlight specific achievements, align your experiences with the job responsibilities, provide more detailed examples of your technical expertise, and further connect with Google’s mission.

Best of luck with your application.

Sincerely, [Your Name] Hiring Manager

We can see that we are a lot closer to a perfect cover letter. The process of refining and fine-tuning depends on iteration and experimentation. If you still feel unsatisfied with the results, you can keep on making small adjustments.

Note: It's important to keep in mind that ChatGPT is an AI-powered tool and may not always be entirely accurate. Therefore, it's essential to carefully review and edit the generated content before submitting it for final use.

Try it yourself#

You can use the widget below to see the output for your prompt. Try out the process we have followed above with your information in each prompt.

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Try out prompts to generate and evaluate a cover letter

The Basics of Cover Letters

Cover Letters for Different Experience Levels